The Memphis Grizzlies can take comfort in Tony Allen’s return to the court as a sign he is close to recovering from arthroscopic knee surgery.

A defensive pillar for the Grizzlies, Allen had minor surgery to repair cartilage in his left knee during the offseason. He has shown up at Memphis’ FedExForum to work out and expects to be in attendance when training camp opens on Oct. 2, according to The Commercial Appeal.

Tony Allen is close to a full return to the Memphis Grizzlies from offseason surgery to repair cartilage in his left knee. (AP Photo)

"I'm definitely getting myself back to being that thirsty dog," Allen said. "I don't want to rush it. But I'll be back for the first game, Oct. 31, against the (Los Angeles) Clippers. I guarantee that."

Allen provided the Grizzlies with a gritty defender to take on the NBA’s best. In a Western Conference loaded with electric guards, Allen defended the top player for every opposing team.

General manager Chris Wallace said the Grizzlies know what to expect from Allen.

"Tony's an elder statesman now on this team," Wallace said. "We're expecting more of the same."

With Allen’s limitations on offense, the Grizzlies must have offensive fire power accompany him off the bench. The departure of O.J. Mayo to the Dallas Mavericks hurt that element, but Allen expects pickups Jared Bayless and Wayne Ellington to soften the blow.

"They both are talented. Ellington can shoot from anywhere and Bayless is a scorer. He kind of reminds me of O.J.,” Allen said. “I'm ready to go to war with whoever we have in camp."